[Objective determination of optical density of xanthophyll after supplementation of lutein]

It is thought that a high optical density of xanthophyll has a protective effect against the development of aggregated macular degeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate whether an increase of the optical density of xanthophyll in the macula after a supplementation of lutein can be proven by objective methods. Most methods applied for the determination of the macular pigment require the co-operation of the proband and the ability for foveal fixation.

Imaging spectrometry and the evaluation of laser scanner images taken at 488 nm will be presented. In contrast to psychophysical methods, both methods are independent of the patients ability for foveal fixation.

Even by evaluation of laser scanner images taken as in fluorescence angiography but without inserting the blocking filter, the 2-dimensional distribution of xanthophyll can be determined. In 10 probands taking 6 mg lutein daily over 40 days, an increase of the optical density could be determined at least in some probands. The optical density reached a plateau 30 days after starting the supplementation of lutein.

The assumed protective effect of xanthophyll against age-related macular degeneration can be influenced by supplementation of lutein under objective control.